Root Canals

Endodontics is the procedure performed to preserve a tooth with a pulp that is infected or irreversibly inflamed. The more common title is “root canal”. Root canals have a negative reputation because they are usually done when the patient has a toothache. The procedure then becomes associated with pain even though the pain was pre-existing. Root canals are performed under a good local anesthetic so that the patient is comfortable. Frequently the toothache is gone after the procedure, but often a pain medication like ibuprofen is needed for 1-2 days afterward until the toothache subsides. When the root canal is completed the tooth will need a restoration such as a crown or filling to reinforce it.